Domain organization of the polymerizing mannosyltransferases involved in synthesis of the Escherichia coli O8 and O9a lipopolysaccharide O-antigens

Abstract

Background: Escherichia coli O8 and O9a polysaccharide repeat units are synthesized by serotype-specific multidomain (WbdA) mannosyltransferases. Results: The various WbdA domains are functional when expressed individually. Conclusion: The number of domains identified in each WbdA protein correlates with the different linkage types formed by the enzyme. Significance: Modular glycosyltransferases could be exploited for synthesis of precise glycoconjugates with medical and industrial applications. © 2012 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.